Demand is already high for a new 48-unit affordable housing complex at the site of Belfast’s former public works garage, which is opening after four years of development.
Almost 200 people have already expressed interest in living in the complex, which is called Congress Street Commons, according to Natasha Desjardins, director of property management for C&C Realty Management, who was one of several officials gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony there on Monday.
Twenty-one units have already been occupied since the complex opened at the end of November, and five more tenants will move-in after the holidays.
Numerous officials and residents celebrated the completion of the project at 115 Congress St., which will help to ease the housing shortage that’s driven up rental and purchase prices across Maine and especially in the midcoast.
“There’s a severe lack of housing, and I just think this is wonderful and so well-done,” said Belfast resident Sharon Goguen, who lives nearby on Miller Street.
“This is what everybody’s been asking for, and this is what we’ve got,” City Councilor Paul Dean said. “It’s really good, and I think it blends in with the community.”
Applications are now open for the complex, which includes a total of 36 subsidized units for renters who make 60 percent of the median income level, and another 12 subsidized units for those who make 80 percent of that level.
The development was a collaboration involving the city, Developers Collaborative, C&C Realty and SolarLogix.
Laura Reading, director of affordable housing for Developers Collaborative, said there were some challenges in converting the public works site to housing, but that “We had a lot of really good partners to work together with.”
The complex also includes solar panels on its rooftops.
“We’re just really excited to be part of the lease up. Housing is such a priority here in Maine, so we’re proud to get as many move-ins before the holiday, which is always special,” Desjardins said.
